Onshape
UnclaimedThe only cloud-native product development platform for CAD, PDM, and real-time collaboration.
Visit WebsiteReviews onG2Capterra
1034 reviews trackedThe Bottom Line
Entry price
Free plan available, paid tiers above
Biggest pro
No installations, upgrades, or hardware requirements
Biggest con
Requires an internet connection for full functionality
TL;DR - Onshape
- Cloud-native CAD and PDM platform accessible from any device.
- Eliminates crashes, data loss, and streamlines collaboration with integrated version control.
- Offers parametric modeling, advanced assemblies, and real-time co-editing for efficient product development.
Pricing: Free plan available
Best for: Growing teams
4.6/5 across review platforms
What is Onshape?
Onshape is a comprehensive, cloud-native product development platform that integrates computer-aided design (CAD) and product data management (PDM) into a single system. It eliminates the need for installations, upgrades, and local file management, allowing engineers and designers to access their work from any device, anywhere. The platform is designed to prevent crashes and data loss, offering a reliable and efficient environment for design.
Onshape caters to a wide range of users, from individual professionals and hobbyists to large enterprises, students, and educators. It streamlines collaboration with features like branching and merging, real-time co-editing, and an infinite undo history, making it ideal for distributed teams. The platform supports parametric modeling for solid, surface, frame, and sheet metal designs, alongside advanced assembly capabilities, enabling users to accelerate product design and improve manufacturing workflows.
Available on: Web, iOS, Android
Pros & Cons
Pros
- No installations, upgrades, or hardware requirements
- Eliminates crashes and data loss
- Streamlines collaboration for distributed teams
- Integrated PDM simplifies version control
- Always on the latest version with continuous updates
Cons
- Requires an internet connection for full functionality
- May have a learning curve for users accustomed to traditional desktop CAD
Ratings Across the Web
4.6(1,034 reviews)
Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more
Preview
Key Features
Cloud-native architectureIntegrated PDM with branching and mergingReal-time collaborationParametric modeling (solid, surface, frame, sheet metal)Part Studio environmentCustom Features (FeatureScript)Mixed Modeling (parametric and direct)Advanced Mating Features for assemblies
Pricing Plans
Free TrialPricing checked Jun 18, 2026
Free Plan
Free
- Unlimited public storage
- CAD tools
- Real-time collaboration
- Version control
- Mobile apps
- Online training
- For non-commercial use only. All Onshape Documents are accessible to the public.
Standard Plan
$1,500 / user per year
- All the features of Free
- Unlimited private storage
- Direct, In Product Support
- Professional CAD for commercial use with built-in data management delivered online with 24/7 reliability.
Professional Plan
$2,500 / user per year
- All the features of Standard
- Company-managed data
- Release management
- Advanced PDM
- Simulation
- Rendering
- ECAD/MCAD exchange
- CAM
Enterprise
Contact us for custom pricing.
- All the features of Professional
- Custom Release Management
- Analytics and Dashboards
- Arena PLM Connection
- Advanced Admin and Security (SSO)
- Guest access (full and light user licensing)
- Priority Support
- Enterprise-grade CAD and PDM for large companies that need better transparency and faster innovation amongst teams.
How Onshape's pricing compares
At $125/mo, Onshape is the most premium of its 3 direct competitors.
Entry paid plan, monthly. Pricing checked Jun 18, 2026.
Reviews
$99Free with your review
Write a reviewReview Onshape, get a free AI guide
Share your experience and we will send you Improve Your Thinking Patterns Using ChatGPT, free.
4.6/5
Across 1,034 verified user reviews on G2, Capterra
Add your hands-on experience using the offer above to help the next buyer.
Best Onshape Alternatives
Top alternatives based on features, pricing, and user needs.
Still deciding?
Most buyers shortlist 2 or 3 tools before committing. Pull a side-by-side comparison or browse the full alternatives shortlist below.
Explore More
Onshape FAQ
How does Onshape facilitate real-time collaboration among design teams?
Onshape streamlines collaboration through features like branching and merging, real-time co-editing, and an infinite undo history. This allows distributed teams to work together efficiently on product designs without concerns about version control or data loss.
Which teams benefit most from using Onshape?
Onshape is ideal for distributed teams and organizations ranging from individual professionals to large enterprises, students, and educators. Its cloud-native nature and collaborative features support seamless product development across various locations and user types.
How is Onshape priced?
Onshape is available on a free tier, which provides access to basic functionalities. For users requiring more extensive usage and advanced features, paid plans are offered.
What kind of design tasks can be performed using Onshape's parametric modeling?
Onshape's parametric modeling capabilities support solid, surface, frame, and sheet metal designs. It also includes advanced assembly features, allowing users to accelerate product design and improve manufacturing workflows across various engineering disciplines.
How does Onshape compare to a tool like Maya for design professionals?
Onshape integrates CAD and PDM into a single cloud-native platform, focusing on engineering design and manufacturing workflows, unlike Maya which is primarily a 3D animation, modeling, simulation, and rendering software. Onshape eliminates installations and upgrades, providing continuous updates and preventing data loss, which differs from the typical local installation model of Maya.
Can Onshape be used for developing complex mechanical assemblies?
Yes, Onshape includes advanced assembly capabilities that allow users to develop complex mechanical assemblies. Its parametric modeling supports various design types, enabling comprehensive product design and improved manufacturing workflows.
Source: onshape.com